The building process is fragmented. Where in the old days the architect was the great builder who 'managed' the whole process; nowadays, this is not as straight forward anymore due to the number of design partners and the building complexity. Even though over the years there has been an improvement of​ the performance of buildings that have been engineered, there has also been negative productivity within our market due to the fragmentation. Fragmentation leads to redundant and abundant (paper)work and complicates the communication process. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is able to overcome or at least reduce the impact of fragmentation within the design, build and operate process.

What is BIM?

Building Information Modelling (​BIM) is a process for managing the information produced during a construction project, in a common format, from the earliest feasibility stage through design, construction, operation and finally demolition, in order to make the best and most efficient use of that information.

BIM has 3 key elements:

The consistent, conventional labelling or naming of documents and data;

A method for storing and manipulating information

A method for exchanging or issuing information about the building, including its construction, operation, performance and maintenance.

The use of BIM can increase efficiency and reduce errors. Virtual designs are built in 3D before work proceeds on site; the attributes of all the elements of the building can be found in the model; and spatial 'clashes' can be identified and resolved in the model instead of on site.

​Deerns is a leader in the application of BIM in the installation sector and carries out dozens of projects in accordance with the BIM method for commercial, health care, laboratory and data centre projects. Some examples are: